Revised ASPRE: Your questions answered

Joanna is a property law expert, Past President of ADLS (TLANZ), Convenor of TLANZ’s Documents & Precedents Committee and a member of its Property Law Committee. She is also a member of NZLS’ Land Titles Committee. She often makes determinations under the ASPRE when there are disputes, is a past Chair of the Property Disputes Committee and gives expert evidence in Courts and Tribunals on a wide range of property matters.

Geoffrey is a civil and commercial litigator who provides objective and methodical advice to people who are experiencing difficult situations. He was admitted as a barrister and solicitor of the High Court of New Zealand in 2006, after obtaining a conjoint BA (majoring in Ethics) LLB (Hons) and an LLM with First Class Honours in Public Law from the University of Auckland.

Geoffrey began his legal career acting for the owners of leaky buildings and helping them to resolve complex and technical claims. He has also defended councils, insurers, and insured businesses in a wide range of scenarios. Geoffrey typically acts for clients who are dealing with breaches of contract, negligence, or nuisances, or who need legal guidance to deal with unexpected problems. He also defends clients from claims alleging wrongdoing and seeking compensation. His clients’ problems are often resolved through negotiation, very sensibly written letters, or the use alternative forms of dispute resolution (such as mediation or negotiation) to obtain a resolution. Sometimes, however, going to Court is unavoidable. Whatever the process, Geoffrey helps his clients by guiding them, advising them, and by fearlessly advocating for them.